Concrete History: The NYC Documentary Trailer
Do you ever stop to consider the sheer volume of concrete that makes up our urban landscape?
For New York City dwellers, the answer is a resounding yes. The city is built, defined, and sustained by an incredible, omnipresent material, and now, acclaimed documentarian John Wilson is taking us on a deep dive into the very bedrock of the metropolis: The History of Concrete.
This groundbreaking feature film marks a significant milestone for Wilson, as it is his very first feature-length cinematic endeavor. Following the success and acclaim of his earlier HBO series, How To with John Wilson, Wilson turned his focus to the material that shapes the city we love—not just its history, but the complex, multifaceted reality of concrete itself.
The documentary goes beyond simple historical recitation. Wilson explores the fascinating differences between the raw materials, examining the science behind cement and concrete, and delves into the practical realities of maintaining and managing this vast urban infrastructure. Viewers will learn not only about the composition of the material but also about the often overlooked processes of cleanup and urban management.
Adding another layer of intrigue, the film serves as a meta-commentary on the act of documentary filmmaking. Executive produced by Nathan Fielder, the project acts as an entertaining tribute to the various people and forces that are essential to holding the city together, positioning the concrete not just as a building material, but as a testament to the city’s collective effort.
It is a cinematic exploration that grounds the abstract history of the city in tangible reality, reminding us that even the most monumental structures are built from the earth and the very elements we navigate every day.
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